Schaaf Supports Local Merchants on “Plaid Friday”

Oakland Mayor-elect Libby Schaaf urged Oaklanders to join her in shopping local on Plaid Friday and to support local merchants that have been victims of recent vandalism.

She kicked off her Plaid Friday by visiting Marion & Rose’s Workshop, located in especially hard hit Old Oakland. Owner Kerri Johnson is a proud founder of Plaid Friday and a Kava Zip borrower.

“Today is an opportunity for Oaklanders to come together while supporting the local merchants that are an essential part of Oakland’s fabric,” said Schaaf, who lives in Oakland’s Dimond neighborhood.

“I am urging residents to join me in putting their money where their hearts are by shopping local, especially in areas of our city that have been particularly hurt over the past few nights.”

Plaid Friday was conceptualized in 2009 in Oakland, a city known for strong shop local campaigns, and is now a nationally recognized event with cities and towns participating all over the country.

The name Plaid Friday was conceived from the idea of weaving the individual threads of small businesses together to create a strong fabric that celebrates the diversity and creativity of independent businesses.

“Plaid Friday is the relaxing and enjoyable alternative to the big box store ‘Black Friday,’ and is designed to promote both local and independently owned businesses during the holidays,” said Johnson.